5,7-dimethoxyflavone induces melanogenesis in B16F10 melanoma cells through cAMP-dependent signalling.

Melanin protects the skin against ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and diverse free radicals. Agents that increase melanin synthesis in melanocytes may reduce UVR-induced skin damage and skin cancer. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of 5,7-dimethoxyflavone (5,7-DMF) on melanogenic protein expression and signalling pathways. We found that 5,7-DMF significantly increased melanin content by upregulating microphthalmia-associated transcription factor and related melanogenic proteins. Additionally, 5,7-DMF increased cAMP levels, which activates a cascade of reactions, such as cAMP responsive element-binding protein and Akt/glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) signalling. Thus, 5,7-DMF may be an effective pigmentation stimulator for photoprotection and hypopigmentation disorders.